Why Basil Rajapaksa too will fail as a President of Sri Lanka

[ThinkTank]

Basil Rajapaksa, like his brother Gotabaya Rajapaksa, faces several challenges that could contribute to his potential failure in a presidential role. Here are some reasons why:

Political Legacy and Family Influence:
The Rajapaksa family's dominance in Sri Lankan politics has led to significant public discontent due to allegations of corruption, nepotism, and authoritarianism. Basil, being part of this family, inherits these negative perceptions.

Economic Challenges:
Sri Lanka has faced severe economic issues, including debt crises, inflation, and foreign exchange shortages. Gotabaya Rajapaksa's tenure was marked by poor economic management, and Basil would likely struggle with the same deep-rooted issues.

Public Distrust:
After Gotabaya's presidency, many Sri Lankans have grown increasingly skeptical of the Rajapaksa family's ability to lead effectively. Basil would have to overcome substantial public distrust.

Policy Continuity:
Basil Rajapaksa might continue policies similar to those of Gotabaya, which were unpopular and ineffective in addressing the country's needs. This could lead to continued dissatisfaction and unrest.

Lack of Innovation:
The Rajapaksa family is often seen as clinging to traditional and outdated political practices. Basil might struggle to implement innovative solutions or adapt to changing political and economic landscapes.

International Relations:
Gotabaya's tenure saw strained relations with key international partners. If Basil follows a similar foreign policy approach, it could further isolate Sri Lanka on the global stage and exacerbate economic and diplomatic issues.

Leadership Style:
Both Gotabaya and Basil have been criticized for their authoritarian leadership styles. This approach can lead to resistance from both the public and political institutions, hampering effective governance.

In summary, Basil Rajapaksa would likely face significant obstacles due to the legacy of his family's rule, deep-seated economic issues, and public and international distrust. These factors suggest that his presidency could face similar challenges and potential failures as Gotabaya's.